Neither material is universally "better," but the right choice depends on your space. Faux wood is ideal for high-humidity areas (bathrooms, kitchens) and budgets. Real wood is superior for large windows, traditional aesthetics, and long-term home value.
Yes, faux wood shutters are generally cheaper than real wood shutters. They offer a classic, upscale appearance but cost significantly less upfront due to more efficient manufacturing processes and less expensive synthetic or composite materials.
Materials include vinyl shutters, a popular choice that resists fading, rot, cracking and peeling. The woodgrain finish with routed edges provides a real-wood appearance. You'll also find many homes with wooden shutters. Cedar shutters are a common wood choice because they're insect-, warp- and weather-resistant.
Faux wood blinds are a durable and budget-friendly alternative to real wood, but their heavier weight makes them difficult to lift on wide windows. They also lack the authentic grain of real timber and can warp or discolor if exposed to extreme, direct sunlight.
Shutters are not outdated in 2026, but the wrong types absolutely are. Design trends heavily favor functional, high-quality, and properly proportioned shutters over cheap, mass-market, or non-functional ones.
The most popular style of shutters is the Louvered shutter. Known for their overlapping horizontal slats, they offer a timeless, symmetrical look perfect for traditional homes like Colonials and Cape Cods.
Exterior shutters should never be installed on multiple, grouped windows (like double or triple units), large picture windows, bay windows, arched windows (unless the shutter is custom-arched), or windows with prominent architectural trim. Shutters on these windows look disproportionate and violate the rule that each shutter should cover half the window width.
The newest trends in window coverings focus on smart motorization, natural eco-friendly fabrics, and layered dimensions. Homeowners are blending high-tech functionality with sustainable, organic textures to create spaces that feel both elevated and grounding.
Choosing between wood and faux wood blinds comes down to your room's environment, your budget, and the size of your windows. Faux wood is ideal for humid spaces, is highly budget-friendly, and resists warping. Real wood is lightweight, better for large windows, and offers a premium, authentic stain.
Some composite shutters are prone to fading or yellowing over time. Our Polywood shutters are coated with a special paint that contains UV-inhibitors so your shutters won't fade or yellow. Both our Polywood and Ovation shutters are easy to keep clean by simply wiping with a cloth.
Expect to pay between $200 and $600 per window (or roughly $25 to $45 per square foot) for custom interior shutters, including basic installation. For a whole-house project of 8 to 15 windows, average budgets range from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on the size of your home.
Homeowners are moving away from plantation shutters because they block significant natural light and obstruct outdoor views, making rooms feel smaller. Modern interior design favors softer, minimalist treatments like sheer curtains and motorized roller shades that let in more illumination.
Yes, Joanna Gaines frequently uses plantation shutters and interior wooden shutters in her designs. She often recommends them as a stylish, architectural alternative to traditional curtains and blinds.
The point of fake (decorative) exterior shutters is purely to add architectural interest and color to a home's facade. They are a cost-effective way to break up large, plain expanses of siding, add a pop of contrasting color, and make windows look more substantial or tied-together.
The cost of shutters typically ranges from $20 to $45 per square foot. For a standard single-family home (8 to 15 windows), you should expect a total project cost between $1,500 and $5,000 for professional installation, though this can climb to $10,000+ for large, custom hardwood projects.
In typical conditions, fully closed slats can block nearly all visibility from outdoors, though bright interior lighting may still create faint silhouettes. With the right slat size, mounting style, and optional layering, faux wood blinds can deliver privacy that feels secure and comfortable after dark.
Shutters are a beautiful, permanent investment, but they come with notable downsides. The most common complaints are high upfront costs, restricted exterior views, tedious cleaning of the individual slats, and long manufacturing lead times.
Blinds in style for 2026 lean toward natural, eco-friendly materials and high-tech motorized convenience. The hottest trends focus on ultra-matte finishes, organic textures, outside-mounted Roman shades, and smart home automation that optimizes energy efficiency.
Faux wood blinds mimic the natural aesthetic of wood while being more affordable, moisture-resistant, and easier to maintain. On the other hand, wooden faux blinds provide a traditional and elegant look, but they can be more expensive, require regular maintenance, and are susceptible to moisture and humidity.
Martha Stewart famously doesn't use traditional curtains in her homes, joking she could write a book titled "A House With No Curtains." Instead of heavy drapery, she prefers clean sightlines and opts for options that maximize natural light.
Warm, earthy palettes are gaining traction in the 2026 window treatment trends. Instead of embracing muted color schemes, homeowners are selecting organic materials, textured textiles, and warm tones, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels charming and lived-in.
Joanna Gaines typically uses natural, neutral window treatments like airy linen or cotton curtains, woven wood or bamboo Roman shades, and bifold plantation shutters. She is known to layer these elements—often pairing a natural shade with a simple curtain—and hangs panels high and wide to make windows appear larger.
No, shutters are not out of style in 2026, but the way they are used has evolved. Modern design favors functional, well-proportioned architectural systems and custom interior finishes over cheap, mass-produced decorative options.
Shutter problems depend on whether you are referring to window/door security roller shutters or camera shutters.
If you are looking to replace exterior shutters, opt for wide, high-contrast window trim (casing), painted window boxes, or decorative climbing trellises. For interior shutters, excellent alternatives include Roman shades, bamboo blinds, or wide-slat faux wood Venetian blinds.